More Jets Set For Take-Off
Jon Ritson
Apr 9 2008 10:39
EXCLUSIVE: Noel Spencer fears the Newcastle Jets exodus could get worse but refuses to accept the clubs title defence is over before it has even started.
The experienced midfielder has already said numerous goodbyes and with both Joel and Adam Griffiths on the radar of other clubs, he might yet have to say a few more before version four kicks off in August.
Gary van Egmond has already lost Andrew Durante, Mark Bridge, Stuart Musialik and Troy Hearfield with captain Jade North also anxious for the exit.
And just when it looked as thought there might be some positive news for the coach, Ruben Zadkovich looks to have turned his back on the Jets in favour of a move to English Championship side Crystal Palace.
Spencer acknowledges that the grand final party was over pretty quickly but refuses to accept it is all doom and gloom at EnergyAustralia Stadium.
He told au.fourfourtwo.com today: Obviously a few of the boys have moved on and I must admit when I looked around at our last training session before holidays, I think I counted about 10 players.
It is a bit disappointing but thats football sometimes. People move on and Im sure therell be some new faces when we report back.
When you win something then that attracts attention. Obviously Joel Griffiths did well last year and Im sure was disappointed not to be in the Socceroos squad for China.
"Hell want to put that right and as for Adam, I understand he has a clause in his contract which says he can look elsewhere by the end of April.
Theres some tough decisions to be made and you cant blame players for wanting the best they can.
Spencer himself was linked with a move away from the Jets recently but is quite happy to stay put and fight for his place.
The departure of Musialik to Sydney FC has certainly cleared the way for a real assault on a regular starting spot.
He said: There was some interest from the Gold Coast Galaxy but nothing really came of it as they didnt join the A-League.
I just want to come back for pre-season, work hard and help the team go for back to back championships. People can write us off, they are entitled to their opinion but were a pretty determined group.